The Douglas County School District held a Regular Board Meeting on April 17, 2025, focusing on several key agenda items, including volunteer background checks, maintenance projects, and revisions to the annual school calendar.

The meeting began with discussions surrounding the Foster Grandparent Program, which involves senior volunteers assisting in classrooms. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of background checks for these volunteers. It was noted that while the district's background checks are thorough, the processing time can be lengthy due to the involvement of the sheriff's department. The board discussed the possibility of streamlining this process and ensuring that costs associated with background checks do not burden low-income seniors. Ultimately, the board agreed to move forward with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize the program.

Following this, the board addressed maintenance projects scheduled for the summer. The district has been allocating funds annually for various maintenance needs, including roofing, concrete, and pavement repairs. This year, the board approved a budget not to exceed $100,000 for each of the roofing, concrete, and pavement maintenance projects. The roofing project will focus on the commons area at Douglas High School, while concrete work will be done at Jacks Valley and Minden. The pavement maintenance will primarily target the area behind the ROTC and weight room at Douglas High School.

The final significant item on the agenda was the revision of the annual school calendar. Due to changes in state policy regarding contingency days, the district proposed to incorporate three contingency days into the school year rather than scheduling them after the last day of school. This adjustment aims to provide a more stable schedule for families and reduce the likelihood of students returning after the school year ends. The board unanimously approved the revised calendar, which will maintain the same start and end dates for the school year.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the district's commitment to enhancing volunteer programs, maintaining school facilities, and adapting to policy changes to better serve students and families. The board's decisions reflect a proactive approach to addressing community needs and ensuring a smooth educational experience for all students.